About Leigh House
Boutique self catering accomodation on the edge of the Cotswolds.
Leigh House was rumoured to have been given to Robert Dudley, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, in roughly 1572.
It consisted of a great deal of land, farms, stables and kitchen gardens. We still have nearly 5 acres of that land and present day Leigh House is compromised of the original Tudor farmhouse, the converted tithe barn and cheese maker/bread makers cottage set around the original farmyard.
As a family we moved to Bradford on Avon in the Autumn of 2010 in order to revitalise Leigh House and create what is now a fabulous boutique holiday rental property. We can accommodate people across individual, unique properties on site offering exclusivity of the grounds and facilities.
In taking on this Tudor farmhouse we have restored the fundamentals of drains and guttering and then moved onto the more exciting projects such as converting the Old Dairy, which was previously home to 3 donkeys.
We started from scratch, removing animal pens and the side wall of the Dairy and jack hammering up the concrete floor. There is now a beautifully sunny gym kitted out to the highest standards. The sauna is a treat at the end of workout or after a long walk in the winter.
Next on the project list is reestablishing a large pond on our land and continuing work in the Victorian walled garden.
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The Neighbourhood
Bradford on Avon has been a crossing point for the River Avon for centuries and this is reflected in the wealth of historic buildings in the town. The tiny Saxon church beside the river is over 900 years old and still has plaster angels in the walls.
The enormous Tithe Barn at Barton Farm is a wonderful example of 14th Century architecture and is used for film sets, plays and even Halloween ghost story evenings!
In wandering through The Shambles or along Church Lane you will pass buildings of virtually every age for the last 600 years, some of which are now cosy pubs or restaurants.
We benefit from having an array of genuinely independent shops and are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out.
Something for everyone.
There are several very good pubs within walking distance and Sunday Lunch out is a must. All the meat is sourced from local farms and the quality is excellent. Bookings are essential and the owner would be delighted to share their favourites and offer suggestions on the best places to dine locally.
National Trust properties are plenty, both in the immediate neighbourhood and slightly further afield. The Courts, Chalfield Manor, Westwood Manor, and Lacock Abbey are within a few minutes drive. Dyrham Park, Tyntesfield, Stourhead, and Montecute House are a little further away.
Family activities and Events in Bradford on Avon
Exercise & Sporting Activities
Canoe Hire
Hire a Canadian Canoe and paddle through the beautiful Kennet and Avon Canal.
Bike Hire
Towpath Trails by the Canal through the Cotswolds to Bath or Bristol
Swimming
Visit Bradford on Avon Leisure Centre
Spa Facilities
In Bath (12 minutes by train) – Millennium Spa with Rooftop pool and Terrace
Golf
Wiltshire’s only 36 holes course is at Cumberwell Park, rated as 4* by Golf World, is half a mile away. Enjoy a round or two and relax in the friendly clubhouse.
Racing & Track Days
Whether it’s a Ferrari or a rally car that does it for you,test out your skills with various racing experiences at the famous Castle Coombe motor racing circuit.
Rugby
Watch the City of Bath’s finest at the Rec (12 minutes by train). We recommend that you buy tickets in advance.
Walks
Discover the glorious countryside for yourself with wonderful walks through the Limpley Stoke Valley stopping at the Inn at Freshford or the Cross Guns by the aquaduct for refreshment.
Family friendly entertainment around Bradford on Avon
Museum
Above the library – Bradford on Avon through the ages, surprisingly interesting!
Vineyard
Wine tasting at AvonLeigh Vineyard, just over the road!
Pubs/Bistro
Ancient cosy pubs/Gastropubs abound with eight of them recommended by the Good Pub Guide within walking distance.
Restaurants
From Italian to Thai via Eastern Fusion, Bradford on Avon is well served with wonderful local restaurants including the recently opened Three Gables with fine dining Mediterranean style.
Theatre
In Bath (12 minutes by train) the Theatre Royal – one of the oldest and most beautiful in Britain.
Cinema
In Bath (12 minutes by train) ‘The Little Theatre Cinema’ (a small cozy cinema serving food and wine) as well as an Odeon.
Ballooning
Take to the skies and float over Bath and the Cotswolds in a hot air balloon or stay grounded and visit the world famous Balloon Festival in Bristol in August.
Longleat Safari Park
Fun for all the family all year round!
Family Event Grounds
Leigh House is set in 4.5 acres of rural land.
There are two lawned areas of just over an acre each choose from to site the marquee with views across to the White Horse at Westbury. Both fields are surrounded by woodland and are totally secluded. There is plenty of space for parking.
Nearer the house is an orchard and a large pond with mature willow trees. There is also a beautiful walled Victorian garden with lavender pathways and a rose arbour. The photographic choices are endless.
